Slic3r

What's it?

Slic3r is (er, will be) an STL-to-GCODE translator for RepRap 3D printers, like Enrique's Skeinforge or RevK's E3D.

Why another one? Why Perl?

The purpose is to build something more maintainable and flexible than both Skeinforge and E3D. The code makes extensive use of object-oriented programming to achieve some level of abstraction instead of working with raw geometry and low-level data structures. This should help to maintain code, fix bugs and implement new and better algorithms in the future. I also aim at implementing better support for hollow objects, as Skeinforge isn't smart enough to generate internal support structures for horizontal facets. Of course, Perl's not that fast as C and usage of modules like Moose make everything quite memory-hungry, but I'm happy with it. I want to build a "rapid prototyping" architecture for a slicer.

Also, http://xkcd.com/224/

What's its current status?

Slic3r is able to:

read binary and ASCII STL files;
generate multiple perimeters (skins);
generate rectilinear feed (100% solid for external surfaces or with customizable less density for inner surfaces);
use relative or absolute extrusion commands;
center print around bed center point;
use different speed for bottom layer;
output relevant GCODE.

Roadmap include the following goals:

set up a command line interface and hide debug messages;
output some statistics;
allow the user to customize initial and final GCODE commands;
option for filling multiple solid layers near external surfaces;
support material for internal perimeters;
ability to infill in the direction of bridges;
skirt;
cool;
nice packaging for cross-platform deployment.

Is it usable already?

Not yet, as I need to finish the command line interface.

Can I help?

Sure! Send patches and/or drop me a line at aar@cpan.org. You can also find me in #RepRap on FreeNode with the nickname Sound.

What's Slic3r license?

Slic3r is dual-licensed under the Perl Artistic License and the AGPLv3. The author is Alessandro Ranellucci (that's me).

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